Hints From Heloise

Dear Heloise: Here’s something else to use in place of a shoehorn. I have used a plastic bag, a handkerchief and even an extra sock.

Just stick part of the bag (3 to 4 inches) in your shoe and insert your foot while tugging on the other end of the bag. When your foot’s in place, pull the bag out. No, don’t stick your foot into the bag. If you have trouble bending over, this can work even better than a regular shoehorn because the bag can be any length. - Jim Keehn, Hillsboro, Mo.

Dear Heloise: I have two teenage boys who have a dartboard in their room. The wall was getting ruined. We redid their room, and I came up with the idea of covering a piece of paneling (approximately 4-by-5) with some scrap carpeting. I just used heavy-duty staples. Nail or bolt the paneling to the wall and put the board in the center, and no more holes in your walls. - Marilyn Rodriguez, Simi Valley, Calif.